**Russia Offers Electricity to Abkhazia, Demands Cooperation**
On Christmas Day, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said that Russia expects Abkhazia to sign agreements with Moscow in response to a gift of electricity. The electricity is being supplied from December 23 to the end of February.
Abkhazia has been struggling with a crisis after its main power plant was shut down due to low water levels. Residents have been left without electricity during the day, and some public facilities have had to use backup generators. Russian aid comes at a critical time for Abkhazia, which is preparing for snap elections on February 15.
Zakharova called Russia’s gift of electricity a “humanitarian gesture,” but made it clear that reciprocity is expected. She said that Abkhazia should “do its part” by harmonizing legislation and creating conditions for Russian investments.
**Abkhazia Faces Electricity Crisis**
Since December 11, residents of Abkhazia have had electricity from only 9pm to 7am Moscow time. This has led to a humanitarian crisis, with public and commercial facilities switching to backup generators. The acting leader of Abkhazia, Gunba, said that the lack of electricity is putting the health and education system at risk.
**Russia’s Conditions**
Zakharova said that Russia expects Abkhazia to elect a president who will work closely with Moscow for the development of Abkhazia and bilateral relations. She also mentioned that there is widespread demand in Abkhazian society for strengthening ties with Russia.
Abkhazia has been plagued by internal conflicts, including a recent confrontation over cryptocurrency mining. The crisis led to a shootout outside the legislature building, resulting in one death and another injury.
**No Payment for Electricity**
Abkhazia’s energy company, Chernomorenergo, was instructed to ask Tbilisi to increase energy supplies from Russia during winter months. However, it has emerged that Abkhazia did not pay for 77 million kWh of electricity supplied by Russia in October.
The new “humanitarian” supply from Russia will amount to 327 kWh and last until March. Acting head of government PM Bganba confirmed the intent to impose a total ban on cryptocurrency mining and step up efforts to shut down miners.